CBD Oil During Pregnancy and for Children
Children & CBD Oil: What Does Science Say?
The use of cannabis oil (CBD Oil) in children is a widely debated topic worldwide. Below, we have compiled the most important information based on current research and health recommendations.
The useful components of cannabis oils, such as CBD, CBDA, CBDV, CBG, THC, and many other similar compounds, are collectively referred to as phyto, or plant cannabinoids. Our bodies also produce similar substances known as endocannabinoids. Both the plant-derived and our own cannabinoids interact with one of the main biological regulating systems, the endocannabinoid system.
It has been proven that the endocannabinoid system starts developing during the fetal stage and continues to change throughout our life. However, there is insufficient information on how plant cannabinoids affect the functioning of this extremely complex and important system in the early stages of life, so we must be cautious!
1. Medical Supervision Is Required When Using CBD Oil
Experts agree that in the case of minors, CBD use should only occur after medical consultation and individual assessment.
2. Approved for Patients with Epilepsy
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the CBD-based drug Epidiolex for the treatment of two rare and severe forms of epilepsy:
Dravet syndrome
Lennox-Gastaut syndrome
This medication can be used from at least 1 year of age on medical advice, as clinical trials have confirmed its seizure-reducing effect.
3. Treatment of Other Conditions with CBD: ADHD, Autism, Anxiety
Although some research suggests that CBD might help with other conditions as well—such as autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sleep disorders, or chronic pain—the current scientific evidence is not strong enough to serve as general recommendations.
4. THC Content and Child Safety
In most countries, only CBD products with low THC content (below 0.2–0.3%) are allowed. For children, it is specifically recommended to use THC-free or minimally THC-containing products.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, can have significant effects on brain development during early childhood, especially if exposure occurs during prenatal development or early childhood.
The most important known effects include:
4.1 Disruption of the Endocannabinoid System
During brain development, the endocannabinoid system plays a key role in neuron migration, formation of synaptic connections, and regulation of the balance between excitatory and inhibitory neurons. THC can interfere with this finely tuned system, as it mimics endogenous cannabinoids such as anandamide.
4.2 Cognitive and Behavioral Effects
Studies have shown that prenatal or early life THC exposure is associated with:
Learning difficulties (impaired memory, attention, and executive functions)
A higher risk of ADHD-like symptoms (hyperactivity, impulsivity)
Increased anxiety and depressive symptoms during adolescence and adulthood
Reduced stress coping ability, as THC can alter hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis regulation
4.3 Effects on Brain Structure
Neuroimaging studies indicate that prenatal THC exposure:
May reduce the volume of the prefrontal cortex, which is critical for decision-making and impulse control.
May alter hippocampal development, essential for memory formation.
Can cause long-term changes in brain white matter, which plays a role in neural communication.
4.4 Dopamine System Changes and Addiction Risk
Early THC exposure can affect the dopaminergic system responsible for regulating reward and motivation. This may be linked to a higher risk of developing substance use disorders during adolescence and adulthood.
4.5 Effects on Social Behavior and Mental Health
Early life THC exposure is associated with:
An increased risk of developing symptoms similar to autism spectrum disorder.
Elevated risk of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders in genetically predisposed individuals.
Negative impacts on emotional regulation and social interactions.
THC exposure during early childhood can have long-lasting effects on brain structure and function, particularly regarding cognitive performance, behavioral regulation, and mental health. The greatest risk is prenatal exposure, as the endocannabinoid system regulates fetal brain development. Therefore, cannabis use during pregnancy and around young children is strongly discouraged.
CBD in the Fetal Stage
A 2023 study published in Nature examined the effects of CBD exposure on fetal development, specifically how CBD exposure affects offspring's nervous system development and behavior in mice. The researchers administered 50 mg/kg CBD daily to pregnant mice from embryonic day 5 until birth, then observed the offspring's behavior and brain function.
Source: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41380-023-02130-y
The results showed that fetal CBD exposure led to increased sensitivity to thermal pain in male offspring via TRPV1 receptors. Female offspring showed reduced problem-solving abilities, as measured by puzzle box tests. Furthermore, pyramidal neurons in the prefrontal cortex layer of female offspring exhibited decreased excitability: a higher current was needed to elicit action potentials and fewer action potentials occurred at a given stimulus. Additionally, glutamate-induced excitatory postsynaptic current amplitude was reduced, consistent with observed behavioral deficits, meaning that: CBD exposure resulted in less excitable brain cells, weakened neuronal communication, and thus impaired behavioral performance.
The study highlights that fetal CBD exposure may disrupt nervous system development and postnatal behavior in a sex-specific manner in mice. These findings raise awareness about the potential long-term neurological consequences of CBD consumption during pregnancy.
Summary
Based on current knowledge, CBD use during pregnancy and fetal stages is not recommended. If a parent is considering using CBD, medical consultation is essential to avoid possible side effects and health risks. Use before the age of 1 is only allowed on medical advice and exclusively for severe epilepsy cases!
